Strong run ends for Saxton and Schalk

GSTAAD, Switzerland (July 13, 2013)– Ben Saxton of Calgary (in photo) and Chaim Schalk of Red Deer, Alta., lost in the round of 16 Saturday to conclude another strong international tournament at the fifth stop on the FIVB Grand Slam World Tour circuit in beach volleyball.

The Canadians waged an epic battle against ninth seed Jonathan Erdmann and Kay Matysik of Germany and finally fell 19-21, 21-17, 15-12 to finish in ninth place. That is their best ever result on the circuit in six appearances this season.

Saxton and Schalk, fifth at the world championships last week in Poland, won their qualifying match on Tuesday then went 3-0 in the round robin to win their pool and get a bye to the round of 16.

Saturday’s results continues a remarkable season for the first-year pair. They were also fifth at the FIVB World Cup and also have two 17th place finishes on the tour.